What if humanoid robots could evolve to resemble us even more closely? Nvidia is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with their latest innovation: a more intelligent and energy-efficient robot brain.
In a press release on Monday, Nvidia unveiled Jetson Thor, a supercomputer designed specifically for real-time AI computations in humanoid robots and intelligent machines.
Jetson Thor is engineered to process significantly larger volumes of data while demanding less energy than its predecessor, Jetson Orin. Equipped with cutting-edge Blackwell GPUs, Jetson Thor boasts over seven times the AI computing power, double the memory, and more than three times the speed and efficiency, according to Nvidia.
This enhanced capability enables faster sensor data processing and improved visual reasoning, which allows humanoid robots to autonomously navigate, see, and make decisions more effectively.
Nvidia highlights, “Jetson Thor addresses one of the most critical challenges in robotics: facilitating real-time, intelligent interactions between robots, humans, and the physical environment.”
This substantial leap in performance is expected to attract engineering firms. Noteworthy early adopters include Amazon, Meta, Caterpillar, and Agility Robotics, a company that manufactures humanoid robots for use in warehouses and manufacturing settings. Additionally, John Deere and OpenAI are considering adopting the model.
Jetson Thor is also gaining traction in academic circles, with research labs from Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, and the University of Zurich utilizing the technology for autonomous robots in medical research and other applications, as per a recent Nvidia blog post.
The developer kit known as Jetson AGX Thor, which comes with the T5000 module alongside a reference carrier board, power supply, and active cooling system, is now available on Nvidia’s website, starting at $3,499 (approximately €3,300).
Coming soon is the Nvidia Drive AGX Thor, a developer kit built on the same technology tailored for autonomous vehicles. Pre-orders are currently open, with deliveries expected to begin in September.
Nvidia’s Expanding Commitment to Robotics
While AI chips are Nvidia’s primary focus, the company is placing big bets on robotics and autonomous vehicles.
“This is going to be the decade of autonomous vehicles, robotics, and automated machines,” said CEO Jensen Huang in a June interview with CNBC.
Huang elaborated on his confidence regarding the scaling potential of the robotics industry at the company’s annual shareholder meeting. Nvidia anticipates that combined advancements in AI and robotics will generate “a multitrillion-dollar growth opportunity,” according to Huang.
Earlier this year, Nvidia also introduced a suite of AI models known as Cosmos, aimed at enhancing the training of humanoid robots.
Huang’s confidence is backed by steady advancements in humanoid robotics.
Just last week, China hosted its inaugural robot Olympics, the World Humanoid Robot Games. During the three-day event, competitors showcased robots capable of completing a 1,500-meter race in just over six seconds while demonstrating useful skills like sorting medicines and taking food orders.
However, the technology still faces significant hurdles before achieving widespread adoption. Many robots experienced glitches at the showcase, with one even colliding with a spectator during a race.
Nvidia’s Big Week Ahead
Nvidia’s announcement comes at a pivotal moment as the company prepares to report its fiscal second quarter earnings on Wednesday. With market speculation at a high, the implications of these earnings are magnified by recent trade policy changes and the broader economic impact of AI adoption.
The company has faced challenges in navigating its AI chip sales in China amid escalating trade tensions, as China represents a critical market for Nvidia.
Investor concerns are further fueled by a troubling report from MIT researchers, which revealed that less than 10% of AI pilot programs translate into actual revenue increases.
Last month, Nvidia achieved a milestone, becoming the first public company to reach a market value of $4 trillion (approximately €3.7 trillion). Now, the challenge remains for Nvidia to demonstrate that its valuation is grounded in tangible advancements, not just market excitement surrounding AI.
Are humanoid robots becoming more human-like?
Yes, with advances like Nvidia’s Jetson Thor, robots are getting closer to achieving more human-like functions.
What industries are using humanoid robots?
Industries such as warehousing, manufacturing, and medical research are actively adopting humanoid robots for various functions.
Which companies are leading in robotics technology?
Companies like Nvidia, Amazon, Meta, Caterpillar, and Agility Robotics are at the forefront of robotics technology.
When will Nvidia’s Drive AGX Thor be available?
The Drive AGX Thor is available for pre-order now, with expected deliveries beginning in September.
In conclusion, as innovation in robotics progresses, there is so much more to explore. Stay informed and engaged with the latest advancements in technology by continuing to delve into related content at Moyens I/O.